The Many Worlds of Hajji Ahmad examines a world map through questions about who created its accompanying text, how it was produced and what it reveals about Ottoman relationships with the wider world. Dr. Giancarlo Casale, Professor of History and Chair of the Department of History at the European University Institute, leads the lecture.
A map at the meeting point of languages and printing
The Mappa Mundi of Hajji Ahmed was printed from woodblocks originally cut in Venice in 1559. As the first printed map to appear in Ottoman Turkish, it also represents an early effort to adapt printing technology to Arabic script. These features connect its geographical content with the history of how knowledge was recorded and shared.
The lecture explores unresolved questions surrounding the author of the extensive text inscribed on the map and the circumstances in which he worked. Its focus may suit visitors interested in historical maps, Ottoman history or early printing.
Attending the lecture
The event takes place at Qatar National Library in Doha on 26 October 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM. Attendance is free, with registration through the library’s event page.
Dr. Hüseyin Şen, Information Services Librarian for Historical Maps and Scientific Instruments at the library’s Heritage Library, will introduce the event.
